Aparri, Cagayan heat index expected to hit 48°C

MANILA, Philippines — Aparri in Cagayan is expected to hit the highest heat index on Sunday at 48 degrees Celsius (°C), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

Based on Pagasa’s forecast, Dagupan City in Pangasinan might also experience extreme heat at 47°C, followed by Virac in Catanduanes at 45°C.

Apart from the three, the state weather service said 14 other areas will likely reach a heat index of 42 to 51°C, which falls under the “danger” category. Pagasa said this level would likely cause heat cramps and exhaustion, while heat stroke is probable with continued heat or sun exposure.

READ: What is heat index?

The forecast revealed that five areas will likely reach 43 to 44°C. These are as follows:

• Laoag City, Ilocos Norte (44°C)
• Bacnotan, La Union (44°C)
• Tuguegarao City, Cagayan (43°C)
• Masbate City, Masbate (43°C)
• Butuan City, Agusan del Norte (43°C)

Meanwhile, below are nine areas that would hit 42°C:

• MMSU, Batac, Ilocos Norte
• ISU Echague, Isabela
• Casiguran, Aurora
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
• Cuyo, Palawan
• Roxas City, Capiz
• Dumangas, Iloilo
• Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur
• Cotabato City, Maguindanao

READ: EXPLAINER: Why do we monitor the heat index?

To ensure public safety, Pagasa advised the public to limit outdoor time amid the extreme heat.

READ: Cebu gears up for hottest May yet: May 1 temperature to hit 40°C

The agency also urged the public to drink plenty of water, avoid tea, coffee, soda, and liquor, use umbrellas, wear hats and sleeved clothing outdoors, and schedule heavy-duty activities during the cooler periods of the day.